how to fix stiff chain links after breaking chain?

[Spunger]

Hey guys,

I have 2 different chain tools (topeak tool AND park tool) and no matter what I do, I can break a chain fine, but when I put the pin back in, it is always stiff. Sometimes it moves, sometimes it doesn't move as well.

Just wondering any tips/tricks to get the chain after reassembling it to not be stiff?

[BikeGeek]

Bend the stiff link side to side to spread the plates out.

[BikeGeek]

Or, if you have the Park CT-5 or CT-6, it has a "loosening shelf."

Driving the pin in/out:

http://www.parktool.com/images/tools/CT_5ABIG.jpg


Loosening the link:

http://www.parktool.com/images/tools/CT_5BBIG.jpg